“The Right to Hear for All”: Faridkot Medical College Emerges as a New Beacon of Hope in Punjab…
Faridkot (Alexander D’Souza): Transforming the Punjab government’s vision of “Excellent Healthcare for Every Citizen” into reality, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital (GGSMCH), Faridkot, has scripted a new chapter in the field of cochlear implants. Under the “Right to Hear for All” scheme—launched by Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh—patients from the Malwa region are now regaining their ability to hear and speak.
The First Government Institution to Make History:
GGSMCH has become the first government institution in Punjab to master the art of cochlear implant surgery. This journey, which began in 2014, has today reached a significant milestone.
• **Success Statistics:** To date, 60 successful surgeries have been performed.
• **No Age Limit:** Beneficiaries range from a 16-month-old infant to a 65-year-old senior citizen.
**Free Treatment and World-Class Facilities:**
This institution is the first in the state to be empanelled under the Government of India’s ADIP scheme. The key facilities available here are as follows:
**Scheme/Facility/Description:**
**Free Treatment:** Free-of-cost treatment for underprivileged patients through the RBSK and the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.
**Neonatal Screening:** Early detection of hearing impairments in newborns.
**Rehabilitation:** A modern center for Auditory-Verbal Therapy and Speech Therapy.
**Experts’ Perspective:**
“Our cochlear implant program stands as a prime example of the synergy between government support and the institution’s unwavering commitment. We plan to establish similar centers in other institutions very soon,” stated Prof. (Dr.) Rajiv Sood, Vice-Chancellor, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
Lead Surgeon Dr. Sumit Prinja (Head of ENT) noted that this surgery is not only complex but also truly life-changing. His primary focus remains on the early detection of hearing impairments. Meanwhile, Nodal Officer Satish Kumar stated that it is the speech therapy provided post-surgery that reintegrates the patient into the mainstream of society.
Administrative Leadership:
Under the able leadership of Dr. Neetu Kukkar, this program is running smoothly, making GGSMCH today a symbol in Punjab for transforming ‘hearing impairment’ into ‘ability.’
News: 5-3
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